Retractable Article Holding Device

ABSTRACT

The invention provides an improved device for holding a towel or equivalent article for use in the bath or shower so to provide a means of wiping eyes free of irritants. A retractable article holding device encases a retractable reel mechanism in a water tight housing unit, which is suction mounted to a vertical surface. The retractable mechanism consists of at least one tether cord and at least one gripping mechanism, to which a towel or equivalent article can be securely fastened. The retractable tether allows for the towel or equivalent article to be extended to a desired location when tension is applied and subsequently retract to its original position when tension is released.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Provisional Application No. 61/852,846

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISK APPENDIX

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is in the technical field of article holding devices. More particularly, the present invention is in the technical field of retractable, article holding devices. More specifically, the present invention is in the technical field of retractable, article holding devices for use in the shower or bath.

This device specifically addresses the problem many people, especially children, experience while showering or bathing, when water, soap, shampoo or other irritants get into their eyes causing discomfort, irritation or pain. Further, if this problem persists, it can cause fear and anxiety in children during their showering and bathing experience.

Current solutions consist of wiping the face and eyes with towels or equivalent articles which, when not secured by any means, can be dropped accidentally into a tub filled with bath water or come in contact with water from a shower stream and become saturated. Further, a towel or equivalent article, when not secured by any means or not within arms reach, can be difficult to locate and grasp. This especially becomes a problem when vision is impaired due to irritants in the eyes.

Currents solutions that hold towels or equivalent articles include hooks, containers, bars, racks, bins and shelves that can be mounted, either temporarily or permanently, on a wall, in the shower or in a bathtub to hold items, including but not limited to a face towel, washcloth, sponge, etc. The main problem with these solutions is that the towel or equivalent article is not secured by any means allowing for the towel or equivalent articles to easily fall in the bath water rendering them useless.

Another current solution would simply be the use of a towel or equivalent article that is stored outside of the bath or shower making it necessary for someone to reach outside of the bath or shower in order to grasp it.

All of the current devices used for holding articles in the bath do not allow for the article to be secured by any means, subsequently allowing them to fall freely into the bath or shower water. Once the towel is wet, it doesn't work well as a means of wiping and keeping eyes dry from water and other irritants.

The retractable mechanisms, such as a retractable tethering device which employs a coiled spring, are well known in prior art. Lanyard type retractors for instance are used for tethering items such as keys and identification badges to a person's body for easy access. The retracting mechanism has been used for seat belts and electrical cords as well to allow for convenient storage of the article which is it tethering. The current solutions do not allow for the retractable mechanism to be suction mounted to a vertical surface, such as a bath or shower wall, in order to provide access to a tethered item for use in the bath or shower.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a retractable, article holding device which allows users to access an attached towel or equivalent article secured to the article holding device. The article holding device consists of a mounted housing unit containing a retractable reel assembly which holds the article, specifically a lightweight towel.

The present invention allows for any needed household item, and more specifically a lightweight hand towel or equivalent article, to be easily accessible while bathing or showering. By mounting the device on the bath or shower wall, the user is able to easily locate the towel or equivalent article. This device allows for the towel or equivalent article to be mounted in a location of the users choosing so the article is easy to locate if eyesight becomes impaired. Also, by allowing the towel or equivalent article to retract to its original position for continued use, it eliminates the towel from falling into the bath water or shower stream causing it to become saturated.

This device is similar to a number of hooks, containers, bars, racks, bins, shelves that can be mounted, either temporarily or permanently, positioned on a wall, in the shower or in a bathtub to hang items that need to be in reach, included but not limited to a face towel, washcloth, sponge, toothbrush, toy, etc., in that it can be mounted to a smooth surface by using a suction cup, adhesive, or other mounting device. However, the primary and significant difference is the ability of this invention to securely hold the towel or equivalent article to the device with a retractable tether, thereby allowing freedom of movement and ease of restoring the article to its original location.

The primary use of the invention is to hold a towel for use in the bath or shower. More specifically, it is useful for a child or person who may experience discomfort or anxiety from the bathing or showering experience.

The present invention could also be used by an elderly person who may need additional assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing or showering. Keeping the towel easily accessible would make these daily activities easier. Other similar uses include, but are not limited to, using the device to hold other household articles such as a toothbrush, toiletries, etc.

It is an object of this invention to make an accessory item, more specifically a towel or equivalent article, easily accessible for a user to reach and utilize.

It is an object of this invention to give a lightweight face towel or equivalent article, the ability to extend from its original position when tension is applied to the tethered article, in order to reach the desired location where it in needed, with little of no resistance.

It is an object of this invention to make the towel or equivalent article retract back to the original, mounted location so to prevent the accessory item from falling to an undesired location.

It is an object of this invention to allow a towel or equivalent article to retract back to its original location so to provide a predictable location in the event that the user's sight is impaired and an accessory item or article can no longer be seen by the user.

It is an object of this invention to utilize a suction cup or other mechanism to secure the device to a variety of surfaces, including but not limited to shower and tub walls, allowing it to be easily moved to a location of the user's choosing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an expanded, front perspective view of a retractable article holding device with a representative article attachment embodying the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an expanded, rear perspective view of a retractable article holding device with a representative article attachment embodying the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a retractable article holding device embodying the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of a retractable article holding device embodying the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a retractable article holding device with tension applied to the tether embodying the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of a retractable article holding device with tension applied to the tether embodying the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a retractable article holding device with tension applied to the tether and a representative article attachment embodying the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of a retractable article holding device with tension applied to the tether and a representative article attachment embodying the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a retractable article holding device with tension applied to the tether and holding a representative article attachment embodying the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of a retractable article holding device with tension applied to the tether and holding a representative article attachment embodying the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a retractable article holding device with a relaxed tether and holding a representative article attachment embodying the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of a retractable article holding device with a relaxed tether and holding a representative article attachment embodying the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

-   10 retractable article holding device -   12 retractable reel sub-assembly -   14 tether cord -   16 front housing -   18 back housing -   20 rubber stopper -   22 slide latch -   24 gripper -   26 towel or equivalent article -   28 suction cup -   30 decorative housing cover

Referring now to the invention in more detail, in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, there is shown an expanded view of a retractable article holding device 10. A retractable reel sub-assembly 12, like those used for the purposes of holding keys and identification badges, consists of an encased coil and a tether cord 14. The fixed end of the tether cord 14 would be attached to the coil on the retractable reel sub-assembly 12, while the free end of the tether cord 14 would move freely through a guide hole at the bottom of the retractable reel sub-assembly 12. The retractable reel sub-assembly 12 then fits into a designated space of the front housing 16 and back housing 18. The front housing 16 and back housing 18 create an interior space to encase the retractable reel sub-assembly 12 securely. The tether cord 14 is stretched to allow it to move freely through the guide holes located at the bottom of both the front housing 16 and the back housing 18. A rubber stopper 20, a slide latch 22 and a gripper 24 are threaded onto the tether cord 14 and a knot at the end of the tether cord 14 secures those components onto the tether cord 14. A slide latch 22 can freely move across the ridged surface of a gripper 24 to loosen or tighten the grip on a towel or equivalent article 26. A suction cup 28 is fitted into its designated cavity on the rear side of the back housing 18. A decorative housing cover 30 is attached to the front housing 16.

In order to create and use the present invention, one would assemble the device as described above and suction mount the invention to a smooth surface, particularly a vertical surface and more specifically a shower or bathtub wall. It would be important to choose a location that would not allow for the towel or equivalent article 26 to be stretched far enough to reach the water in the bathtub, thereby causing it to become saturated.

Once the user has mounted the fully assembled device to a bath or shower wall, users simply pull down on the attached towel or equivalent article 26 to their face with little or no resistance. Once the face and eyes are wiped clear of water or other irritants, the user may let go of their grasp of the towel allowing it to retract back to its original location. The towel then remains in that location until the user requires it again. This retractable function can be repeated over and over as needed by the user to keep eyes dry and free of irritants, while at the same time keeping the towel in a secure, dry location away from the water in the tub.

All the elements of the invention are necessary for proper functioning with the exception of the decorative housing cover 30. This optional item allows for interchangeable, decorative embellishments to be placed on a standard device, allowing for an unlimited choice of colors, shapes and designs. A variety of different towels, facecloths, sponges, toys, household products, or hygiene related items, which could be secured to the end of the retractable reel cord, would add additional functionality of the device.

In further detail, still referring to the invention in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the present invention as shown includes the front housing 16 and back housing 18, measuring about 5.08 to 7.62 cm. (3 to 4 in.) in width, which fit together and create a cavity sufficient to hold a retractable reel sub-assembly 12. The tether cord 14 would need to be of sufficient length, such as about 50.8 to 76.2 cm. (20 to 30 in.) in length. There is shown a suction cup 28 measuring approximately 6.985 cm (2.75 in.) across and having the ability to sufficiently hold the device securely in place on a vertical surface. The suction cup allows for the entire device to be mounted securely to a smooth surface, particularly a vertical surface and, more specifically, a shower or bathtub wall. The suction cup 28 is attached to the back housing 18 in such a way to provide ample space from the tub or shower wall allowing the towel or equivalent article to move freely, without sticking to the wall when it becomes damp or after frequent use. The towel or equivalent article 26 could vary in size and shape, materials and include a variety of features, including but not limited to various absorbent materials, decorative designs, various colors, shapes, such as a triangular design to allow for the wider area of the towel or equivalent article to be utilized to wipe the eyes.

The construction details of the present invention as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are that the components of the retractable article holding device 10 can be made of various materials including, but not limited to, plastic, rubber, silicone or any other sufficient material that would be appropriate to keep water from intruding on the interior components of the invention. The invention could vary in size, shape and material in order to sufficiently hold any size item and appeal to any user. For instance, when the invention is intended to be used by a child, the invention may have bright colors, utilize animal designs, lights, sounds or other features to appeal to a child's senses. The various components are sealed together to prevent water from entering into the retractable reel mechanism. A variety of means to secure each component together could be used, including but not limited to, any adhesive materials, double sided adhesive disk, glue, screws, etc.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4, there is shown a retractable article holding device 10 with the tether cord 14 in a relaxed position as it would appear when it is ready to be affixed to a surface, without any towel or equivalent article 26 attached.

In more detail, still referring to the invention in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, retractable article holding device 10 as shown includes a front housing 16 and back housing 18 sealed together and attached to the suction cup 28. The decorative housing cover 30 as shown is one possible representative design, such as a flower. The gripper 24 is shown in its natural position. When tension is not applied to the tether 14, the gripper 24 sits flush against the stopper 20.

In further detail, still referring to the invention in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the retractable, article holding device 10 as shown is of sufficient size to hold a lightweight towel. The retractable, article holding device 10 as shown is approximately 7.62 to 10.16 cm. (3 to 4 in.) wide and approximately 7.62 to 10.16 cm (3 to 4 in.) deep. The suction cup is of sufficient size, such as about 6.35 to 8.89 cm. (2.5 to 3.5 in.) wide, and strength to hold onto a vertical surface and maintain its position when the gripper 24 is pulled on by a user and extended from it natural position.

Referring to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, there is shown a retractable, article holding device 10 as it would appear when the tether cord 14 is pulled to an extended position, without any towel or equivalent article attached.

In more detail, still referring to the invention in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the retractable, article holding device 10 as shown includes a front housing 16 and back housing 18 sealed together and attached to the suction cup 28. The gripper 24 is shown in its extended position. When the user pulls on the gripper 24, the tether cord 14 extends to a distance sufficient to reach the desired location, such as about 20 to 30 inches in length.

Referring to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, there is shown a retractable, article holding device 10 as it would appear when the tether cord 14 is pulled in an extended position, with a representative towel or equivalent article 26 as it is about to be attached to the gripper 24.

In more detail, still referring to the invention in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the retractable article holding device 10 shows the gripper 24 in the open position, allowing ample space to insert a towel or equivalent article 26 into the teeth of the gripper 24. The slide latch 22 rests at the top of the gripper 24 until it is needed to secure the towel or equivalent article in place.

Referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, there is shown a retractable, article holding device 10 as it would appear when the tether cord 14 is in an extended position, with a representative towel or equivalent article 26 attached to the gripper 24.

In more detail, still referring to the invention in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the retractable article holding device 10 shows the gripper 24 in the closed position, securely holding the towel or equivalent article 26 into the teeth of the gripper 24. The slide latch 22 is moved down the ridged surface of the gripper 24 to tighten the grip and secure the towel or equivalent article in place.

Referring to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, there is shown a retractable, article holding device 10 as it would appear when the tether cord 14 in its relaxed position, with a representative towel or equivalent article attached 26 to the gripper 24.

In more detail, still referring to the invention in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the retractable article holding device 10 shows the gripper 24 in the closed position, securely holding the towel or equivalent article in the teeth of the gripper 24. The slide latch 22 is moved down the ridged surface of the gripper 24 to tighten the grip and secure the towel or equivalent article 26 in place. When the user does not pull and extend the towel or equivalent article 26 to an extended position, the retractable reel sub-assembly 12 will automatically retract, pulling the towel up as shown and hold it securely in that position until it is needed again by the user.

One of the advantages of the present invention over current solutions include, without limitation, the ability of this device to securely hold the towel or equivalent article 26 to the device with a retractable tether cord 14, thereby allowing freedom of movement and ease of restoring the article to its original location. This device allows for the towel or equivalent article 26 to remain as dry as possible so it can be used to wipe eyes over and over during bathing or showering. By both securing the article to the wall and allowing it to be used and retract to its original location, it solves both problems of first locating the towel or equivalent article 26 to be used and then allowing for it to be used and then retract to its original location.

An advantage of the present invention is the use of the suction cup 28 or other mounting device allowing the retractable article holding device 10 to be mounted to a vertical surface such as a bath or shower wall, or any other location, where a towel or equivalent article 26 needs to be within reach. The suction mounted feature allows for the item to remain in a desired location until the towel or equivalent article 26 needs to be utilized.

An advantage of the present invention is the use of an interchangeable, decorative housing cover 30 which affixes to a plain, front housing 16 wall. The decorative housing cover 30 allows for flexibility in changing the decorative features and overall appearance of the article holding device 10 while maintaining the same function and providing a more cost effective method of offering multiple designs.

An advantage of the present invention is the ability for the invention to be used with any lightweight towel. The invention could also be used with a specially designed, decorative towel, or equivalent article, with a unique shape and a method for securely attaching the towel or equivalent article 26. The towel should be absorbent yet lightweight enough to hang from the retractable tether and retract with ease. If the decorative towel is intended for use by a child, the design, colors and decorative features of the towel could be designed to appeal to a child. A customized towel that is slightly larger than a standard washcloth. For instance, a triangular towel that is narrow at the top and wider at the base allowing for more cloth to be utilized at the bottom for wiping eyes.

In broad embodiment, the present invention is an article holding device which can be securely mounted to any smooth surface and having at least one retractable tether able to securely hold a towel or equivalent article 26.

While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment, method and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention as claimed. 

I claim:
 1. A retractable article holding device comprising: (a) suction cup; (b) an outer housing case having front and back walls and perimeter side walls; (c) a retracting coil mechanism enclosed within the interior cavity of the outer housing case; (d) at least one tether cord assembly having a fixed end attached to said retracting coil mechanism and a free end projecting through a guide hole of said outer housing case; (e) stopper; and (f) a gripper mechanism attached to the free end of said tether cord, the device being operable for presenting a length of said tether cord in response to tension applied to the free end of said tether cord and for retracting the length of said tether cord into said outer housing case when tension on said tether cord is released and said tether cord is in a relaxed position.
 2. The retractable article holding device of claim 1 wherein free end of said tether cord is attached to said gripper mechanism comprised of a ridged surface and sliding latch as a means of securing an article such as a towel or equivalent article for use in the shower or bath.
 3. The retractable article holding device of claim 1 wherein said suction cup is affixed securely to the back of said outer housing case by means of a fitted slot to accommodate said suction cup allowing for space from any vertical surface from which said suction cup is attached, in turn allowing for any article attached to said gripper to hang freely from said gripper when said tether cord is in the relaxed position.
 4. The retractable article holding device of claim 1 having a decorative face plate attachment to the front wall of the outer housing case, secured by any means to ensure a tight seal of the said face plate to the front wall of said outer housing case.
 5. The retractable article holding device of claim 2 wherein said towel or washcloth is lightweight, providing ease of movement of said tether cord through a guide hole when tension is applied to the free end of the said tether cord and said towel is shaped so the widest side of the said towel is opposite the end of the said towel attached to said gripper.
 6. The retractable article holding device of claim 4 wherein said decorative face plate attachment could feature unlimited colors, shapes, materials or decorative designs. 